MOSES LAKE — In communities across Washington State, veterans are receiving heartfelt recognition for their service today. This day is not only an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices of our nation’s servicemen and women but also a time to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them in their transition to civilian life, Washington officials say. 

Governor Bob Ferguson emphasized the importance of honoring military service during his proclamation for Veterans Day.  

“It’s important to me to honor military service,” said Ferguson in a statement. “That means fighting for the best possible services for veterans.”  

He noted that Washington is home to a sizable population of veterans, with more than 494,000 individuals having served the nation. Ferguson urged all residents to “acknowledge and honor the contributions of our veterans to the principles of democracy, individual freedom, and human rights.” 

The sacrifices made by veterans have been profound, with “tens of millions of Americans (having) faithfully served in the United States Armed Forces over the past century,” Ferguson said.  

He acknowledged that “hundreds of thousands of Americans have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces,” and underlined veterans who “exemplify bravery and selflessness, willingly putting themselves in harm's way to defend the lives and liberty of others.” 

The recognition of veterans extends beyond mere words, as noted by Senator Patty Murray, D-Wash.  

“As a nation, we make a promise to take care of our veterans when they return home from the front lines — it’s the least we can do for those who have sacrificed to defend our freedoms,” she said in a statement.  

Murray, a daughter of a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, expressed her commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve, emphasizing that true honor is shown through tangible actions.  

“The best way to honor the commitment and sacrifice of our veterans is with our actions — big and small," she wrote.  

Washington Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, said one of the easiest ways to make a veteran's day is with a simple, “Thank you.”  

“If you are at dinner and they ask the veterans to stand up, say thank you. It means a lot to these folks because they gave so much and they haven’t always been appreciated, especially the folks that went to Vietnam. They were really unappreciated when they came home,” Dent said. 

He said thanking veterans should extend past the annual observance of Veterans Day. 

“If you see someone who is a veteran, who is wearing a hat or uniform, say thank you when you see them. If you do that, you will see them brighten right up,” Dent said.  

In line with fostering appreciation, Congresswoman Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., echoed similar sentiments.  

“Today we celebrate and honor the men and women who dedicated themselves to protecting American lives and defending the freedoms we hold dear,” Cantwell wrote. 

The sacrifices of veterans demand respect and appreciation, she said.  

Veterans face a variety of challenges as they return to civilian life after service.  

Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., highlighted ongoing efforts to improve services for veterans, emphasizing the frustration many experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs.  

“Throughout my time in Congress, I have focused on improving the services provided to veterans — whether it’s working to improve healthcare access, advocating for better benefits, or streamlining the complicated processes veterans often face when navigating the system,” Newhouse said in a statement. 

To alleviate burdens faced by veterans and their families, he has co-sponsored initiatives aimed at modernizing the VA's health care systems and improving caregiver support.  

“The current process of applying for support services for caregivers is a bureaucratic nightmare,” he said in a statement.

In more localized efforts, Rep. Michael Baumgartner, R-Wash., said he is dedicated to ensuring the VA focuses on health care rather than bureaucracy.  

“Having witnessed the bravery and sacrifice of service members firsthand, I am committed to living up to the promises made to them and ensuring veterans receive the benefits they earned without bureaucratic hurdles,” he said. 

State Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, said it is important to acknowledge military service.  

“Thank you for your service. It’s what I always say,” she said.  

Warnick expressed appreciation for the generational commitment some families have shown in serving, highlighting that support goes beyond the individuals who have worn a uniform. 

“I appreciate the service of our veterans and their families who have supported their veterans through all of the generations,” Warnick said. 

    Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson shakes the hand of a veteran on Women Veterans Day on June 12.
  

    Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., said it’s important to pause and honor the men and women “who have worn the uniform of our country and served in defense of our freedom.”